On February 13, as a “comment,” post your response to the film Capote. Make your response a thoughtful two paragraphs. This will be your class journal, so also put a copy of your response in your journal document. Make in-depth comments (of at least three sentences) on at least three other entries from this class before February 15.
-
Subscribe
Subscribed
Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
anne f walker 
The film enitiled “Capote” proved to be a riveting depiction of the journey that Truman Capote underwent when writing “In Cold Blood.” I was rather surprised that the film began with the scene of the murder being discovered, I assumed the film would exhibit the Clutter family while alive, synonymous to the way they were conveyed in the novel leading up to the murder. If someone had for instance seen the movie but not read the book, they would not have much of an idea of the kind of people the Clutter family were. This of course makes logical sense though, because the film was a depiction of Capote’s life when he became involved in wrting the novel, not about the Clutter murders themselves.
Hencefoth the film was a more adequet depiction of the copious amount of time, work, and energy Capote put into writing the book. Obviously from the book, we as the audience could not see how psychologically draining it was for Capote, to spend time doing research preceeding the novel, and also how much time he spent conducting interviews in order to gather more information on the story. This tiresome process could explain why he never wrote another full length novel after completing the masterpiece which is “In Cold Blood.” I also found the way in which Capote grew to care about Perry in the film to be very interesting. I expected he would hate him, or at least show digust like Perry’s sister had. I enjoyed the film, but I believe it would have been more adequet, and done the story more justice if the Clutters had been shown while they were alive, leading up to the murder.
* I apologize for the few typos. I should have typed it into word first so it would spell check it.
It’s an interesting assertion that you make about the absence of the Clutter’s depiction, prior to their deaths. If the film had been more centered around the murder itself, it would have taken away from what seemed like the film’s main objective; to provide the audience with a deeper understanding of the complexities of Capote himself. However, I do understand your point in that it would have served the storyline of “In Cold Blood” much more justice to at least briefly depict the Clutter family.
I also expected the film to show the Clutters family alive. Furthermore I agree and think the research for “In Cold Blood” explains why he did not write another novel after because “In Cold Blood” consumed four year of his life. In addition Capote being so attached to Perry and seeing him hang caused him to have a physiological break down and this perhaps contributes to why he did not want to have another physiological break down again.
I agree with you, I thought that the movie would also begin with the Clutter’s daily life. When I started the movie and found that they jumped right into the story, I had to prepare myself. I also thought of the same thing that if one didn’t read the book yet, they wouldn’t understand the movie. Perhaps that may be the reason why Capote never finished another novel, but I think there’s a different reason. I can’t explain but it’s like he lost the drive to write because of how deep he got into the last book as if he never got over it. Which I don’t think he ever did.
I find it interesting because I agree with you on the part of why Capote would take interest in such a inhumane man, and not hate him for his crime? I am and still puzzled by that. Also I agree that the clutters should have been portrayed more. As in, the book introduced Bobby, and the whole scene with Kenyon and his best friend, but in the movie that was not shown at all.
In this biographical film, we see the scenes behind the making of “In Cold Blood.” A few details struck out, one of them being the change of names. The two names were Booby’s to Daniel and Nancy to Laura. This leaves us with the question as to why the names were changed and what are their actual names? It so not so much confusion but curiosity as to why this difference. Of course films are usually different from the book but in this particular case it is striking. As Capote meets Perry, we would think that he would be hesitant due to the fact that that they are murderers but vice versa. Capote is intrigued by them because of the murder but as well as to their reasons behind their decisions.
Capote is sucked into this other world while interviewing the ones involved in this case. We see how the closeness progresses between Perry and him as the years pass by. This just adds to the fuel to the rumor that Perry and he had an affair. The extent that Capote goes to see him as well as Dick is unimaginable. Although at the end it is revealed that Truman Capote only pretended to be Perry’s friend just to get the story, it is visible that Capote deeply cares for Perry. Despite this closeness, Perry is hesitant to tell the full story to Capote but eventually does. This might have been because he didn’t want Capote to have this horrible image of him. After getting the details to that horrific night, Capote still cares for Perry and does not wishes his death. It is fasvinating how much compassion Capote has twoards Perry despite the fact that he murdered four innocent people.
Maybe they changed the names in the film just to add curiousity about whether or not it happened, because obviously not everyone read the book, or maybe they just thought the new names were more modern. Also I noticed too how he and Perry were so close, and I think the affair rumors were true. Unless he were in love with Perry, why would anyone like Capote have any compassion towards a murderer.
I especially find it interesting that you point out that Capote still cared for Perry, even after he was given the gruesome details of the murder he committed. Maybe this depiction could convey how the compassion that Capote had for Perry was unconditional. This unconditonal level of compassion could derive from the enormous amount of empathy Capote had for Perry, as the story of their childhoods paralleled one another.
I think the name change was just to hide their identities. In addition I also found it interesting how much compassing Capote had towards Perry. For example Capote felt as if Perry and him grew up in the same house and if Perry ran out the back door and he ran out the front. I think the compassing is rooted in their similarities because Capote can relate to Perry’s struggles in his life.
Yes, I was very confused as well on the name change. I’m curious as to why the film did that. I agree on how fascinating it is, the compassion that Capote displays for the guys especially Perry. I didn’t expect for that to happen at all. What if the movie wasn’t completely Capote’s story? (It probably is, but maybe the producers over exaggerated his compassion)? Just a thought.
I thought that seeing a behind the scenes of the making of a non-fictional novel was pretty cool. It was interesting to see the work that was put into a book. i could easily see that Capote did care for Perry. In my opinion, changing their names may have been to protect them, because most people change their names for that reason. The movie
showed a lot a passion Capote had. What Capote went through to get the information was quite intriguing, how he was brave enough to get information from a murderer.
The change in the names is due to the fact that they might have wanted to keep their identities secret, but can we ever know that their real names were not changed in the book as well. I agree with the affair rumor, I do think it totally makes sense with the way that Truman Capote took care of Perry in the prison. I feel that maybe the fact that Truman Capote became an alcoholic because of the innocence or the feeling of wanting to find Perry not guilty when the murder was very horrifying.
I totally agree, the film definitely focuses on Perry and Capote’s intimate relationship. I think that since Capote developed a close friendship with Perry before he knew the details of the crime, he was able to see past the evil and really get to know Perry. I too, thought it was interesting that some of the names were changed in film and wasn’t quite sure why the film makers did it.
The film Capote was amazing! To be honest, from the minute the film started I was scared and nervous. Probably due to the fact that I already knew what was going to happen, but yes, I had to pause it and prepare myselfThe film Capote was amazing! To be honest, from the minute the film started I was scared and nervous. Probably because I already knew what was going to happen, but yes, I had to pause it and prepare myself. I found the film to be in a similar structure to the book, but in the opposite way. The movie was not in a lot of details. For example, it did not talk about the two older sisters. However, the film was similar to the book because it began with the murder and interviews then following to the end, Perry’s story. I found the film interesting because it did focus a lot on Perry. The film only showed Perry’s death, his story was the only one heard, and only Perry talked more about his life. I really loved the fact that we got a good picture of Capote. I did not know he had a significant other, I am guessing that the man he lived with was his significant other. Another thing I loved about this film is getting to know and see the process and feelings that Capote went through to write the book.
The film definitely proves that there really may have been an affair between Capote and Perry. When Perry received the sentence to death and the day was coming, one could see all the anguish on Capote’s face. Capote did not want to believe it, but before he regretted not saying bye, he went to see the both of them. The entire ending of the movie tore my heart apart; one can tell that Capote was having a hard time separating his work from his personal life. The moment Capote cried, I wanted to as well. Having to lose someone you became so close to is difficult to cope with. Therefore, at the end when the camera faces Capote after Perry’s drop, my heart shattered as well as Capote’s. Throughout the movie, I was convinced to believe that no one’s life was ever the same again. To know that Capote never finished a book after In Cold Blood truly shows how impacted he was by all of this. The film was, again, amazing.
– Kue Thao.
*Forgot to delete my first three sentences before I posted my comment. :[
It is true that the film mainly portrays the relationship between Perry and Capote, and lacks an in-depth depiction of Hickock. However, it really has to make you ponder what the filmmakers are trying to convey to the audience about Capote himself, when they go so extensively into the intimacy Perry’s and Capote’s relationship. The way in which the film shows how affected Capote was by his research for “In Cold Blood” truly is amazing!
I agree Capote had a difficulty separating his life and work because they both merged together. In addition because Capotes life revolved around his work of researching it cause him to have a huge impact in his life. Lastly I agree the film was amazing.
That’s an interesting point you make about the lack of detail, I too noticed it. It was apparent that the film, and capote himself focused on Perry more than Dick. This is why I wrote my essay on Perry; there seems to be a copious amount of information pertaining to him, and not so much about Dick’s character. When only Perry’s death was shown that really exhibited who the film was centralized on. Also, you pointed out how emotional capote was; this was a surprise to me because it leads me to wonder how someone can care so much about a murderer. You made some great points. 🙂
I agree with you on the part where the movie left out a lot of detail. Including the fact about his two sisters which was great how you caught that. Lastly, I agree that although the fils was not able to catch a few things, it still gave a good understanding of things that the book was trying to portray.
I noticed that throughout the movie, as time went on, Capote eventually befriended Perry, even though it was just a lie. The amount of time spent together eventually brought them close. When capote heard about his 2nd appeal not going through killed him inside, i could easily tell because of his facial expression. When he was hung, you could see a small cringe in his body because it was someone that he ended up getting to know.
I agree, that Capote did have a hard time separating his personal life from work because we can see it when he takes care of Perry. I do not think it is regret that it is the disturbing image that Perry had described in the way that they killed the Clutter family. He feels remorse for the family and has a hard time believing that an individual like Perry could do such a terrifying thing especially to four members of the family. How would you feel if that happened to you when you believe someone is innocent but then you are proved wrong. I would be upset and I would try to find a way to take away all of the sympathy I had for that individual. The novel was very influenced by the Truman Capote and his feelings towards Perry.
I concur, the emotional and dramatic end truly did create an impacting feeling upon the viewer. When you said you empathized with Capote at the end, I can understand what you mean as it is easy to get caught up in this story. And the fact you mentioned Capote could never finish a book afterward is just more evidence that his heart indeed “shattered” as you said. Especially as one could tell that Capote held some sort of importance to perry since he wanted to go to the execution, and the fact that perry really wanted him there puts things into perspective.
The movie Capote is about how Truman Capote got his motivation to write In Cold Blood. The movie gets straight to the point with the murders with no background on what happened. He was with his friend author of To Kill a Mockingbird. Truman had seen the article about the murder in the paper. Capote then wanted to write a better article about the murder. He went to Holcomb and talked to Detective Alvin Dewey. At that point when he was doing his undercover work to find out what happened, he seemed very confident. The movie did not go into detail about Dick and Perry.
I did not expect the characters to look anything like that even if it was just a movie. I thought Dick was short and had little tattoos and Perry was tall. When I saw them I thought that the person who played Dick was Perry because he seemed like he had issues. When Capote goes and talks to Dick and Perry I could tell that he was starting to have feelings for Perry. He was feeding him, talking to him, and bringing him books. Once Truman left he told Perry to write him every five seconds. Overall the most interesting part about the movie was Perry telling what actually happened. It was a well composed movie.
-Melinda Rojas
The fact that this merely started as an article was an interesting point. We knew that Capote was a writer but we did not know he wrote for a newspaper until this biographical film. Although it did not go into full detail of Dick and Perry, we did get some insight of the relationship Capote and Perry had and how it developed over the course of time. As they became closer Perry finally told Capote what happened that night and it was interesting how Capote responded.
Yes, I found it awesome how Capote was friends with that author. What I want to know as well, was what was it about the murder on the newspaper that made Capote want to write. Why that murder and not another. Yes, it was straight to the point, made it very obvious how much Truman cared for Perry. I do wish the movie went into detail about Dick and Perry though. However, the main focus was on Capote and did display the immense amount of stress he went through.
I thought that the movie was a bit slow at times as I nearly fell asleep during a few of the dialogues. However the emphasis on Capote and his obsession with Perry was very well depicted. Personally I was amazed at how influential Capote was as many of his peers seemed to undergo extreme circumstances to support his work.
I really like how you expressed the summary of the film in really specific way. I found it was interesting how Capote was friend with Harper Lee. Overall I think the movie was pretty thoughtful. Also I would say the this non-fiction novel was more interesting than the movie.
This film, “Capote” was one that closely examined the four years (possibly more) Truman Capote spent writing the book, “In Cold Blood”, that made him one of the most infamous authors in American history. The way in which the film depicts how intimate of a relationship Capote developed with Perry Smith, was indeed the aspect that fascinated me the most. At times throughout the film, Capote is portrayed as blatantly lying to Perry about what the title of the book is going to be, implying that his research for the book may be the only motive Capote truly has. This implication is obviously dismissed when Capote is portrayed as nursing a sick Perry back to health, finding him additional lawyers for an appeal, and giving an emotional farewell prior to his execution.
The way in which Capote’s research consumes him is a surely a sign as to how truly mentally and emotionally draining his research turned out to be; and also conveys the deteriorating effects it had on his immediate relationships. Furthermore, Capote’s quest for fame and stature is an endeavor that was depicted as consuming him. Capote is portrayed as referring to his book as “the novel of the decade”, surely giving insight into his obsession with fame. Capote’s predictions came out to be true, but at a hefty price. Towards the end credits, the film states that Capote never finshed another book after “In Cold Blood”, and died in 1984 of complications due to alcoholism.
So true how the connection between Capote and Perry evolved. I wonder if Capote helped him because he felt sorry for them or because he liked Perry. Capote wanting fame and “the novel of the decade” makes him seem overly confident in his work. Capote probably couldn’t finish another book because “In Cold Blood” was too much of a process.
I was also intrigued by the ending captions of the film, I question if Capote truly fell in love with Perry. However, the film doesn’t portray Perry “interested” in Truman,I may be wrong, but yes they have become close but I feel Perry is simply letting go of his past by telling Truman his history. Throughout the film I did not realize how close Capote kept his fame but it does seem it is affecting his well being.
I like the fact that you mentioned Capote’s relationship with Perry Smith. It seemed that the author’s agenda and objectives conflicted with his personal interests surrounding Perry. It was this attraction that would eventually cause Capote to fall into alcoholism. The movie made it quite emphatic that the writer was devastated by the encounters and information of his story.
I found the film captivating. Capote began by wanting to create an article about the Clutters murder but as soon as he began researching he knew instead he wanted to write a book because all the events captivated him. Capote initially merely wanted to use Perry so he can write his article in addition he thought he was going to be scared of the killers. However after Capote continuously visited Perry and learned about all the struggles he went thought Capote could not help being Perry’s friend. I found this fascinating because the thought of being good friend with a murder is bizarre. Yet Capote did such a great job that by showing Perry’s is human and has a warm and loving side that it creates an urge for the viewer to want to shed a tear when Perry hangs in the film.
Capote’s intention of the book was that he wanted persons to view murderers in the realm of humanity and to alerter the reader’s perception of almost everything though his research as it did to him. His intention were a complete success with me because his book made me view Perry as human and see his kind side rather than just viewing him as a monster. This book completely changes my thinking beyond viewing murders as just wicked but as human.
I also really liked how, Capote gave a human emotion Perry and Dick, even though Dick wasn’t in the film that much, we still had sympathy for him. Perry was a Schizophrenic in the book but he wasn’t mentioned of it in the film, which i thought it was interesting because it explains his irrational behavior through out the murder and the runaway.
Althogh it was revealed that Capote only pretended to be Perry’s friend to get the full story, you can clearly see how much he cared for Perry and how close they came to be. In my opinion, they ended up being friends because as Capote put is, he felt that they were raised in the same house but “he went out the back and I went out the front door” (Capote). I also found it interesting how Capote wanted to readers to view them as humane.
The hanging of Perry in the end of the film was a bit shocking. I was thinking perhaps showing the scene where Perry was executed was meant to show the viewer how horrid the death penalty is, especially in the 1960’s, may be a reflection of both the director and Capote’s thoughts of the death penalty. But in all Capote does successfully demonstrate Perry is not a monster but a human being.
Capote does a great job at portraying murderers as being humans as well. I’m sure he knew starting a friendship with Dick and Perry would be strange but he had to do it in order to gain their trust and get a story out of them. In the book, Capote could have added details about the murderers warm sides in order to gain sympathy since he knew they were not monsters.
When I watched the film “Capote” it shined a new light to my view of who we was and how he did the research. I was amazed he wanted to get on a good personal level with everyone he interviewed for the novel, In Cold Blood. In the film he brought gifts and held friendly conversations with one another so they weren’t intimidated by him or his goal to write a novel on such a murder. Capote was very dedicated to his research for the novel, he spent day and night finding more about the murder, trying to get every little detail about it so he can have a well rounded story when he rewrote it. This worked in his favor because the novel is so detailed because of the research.
I noticed because of his research he began to have a close relationship with Perry, I thought Capote had a relationship with Perry that sparked his interest to the murder case. What was interesting was Capote shared a liking to Perry but his dedication to his research and his book was more important than his relationship with Perry, but I noticed Capote showed true emotion towards Perry when the Supreme Court denied their appeal twice, he went into a depression when he heard they were soon to be put to death. Though capote lied about his feelings and book to Perry, he truly cared about him, even though his book Perry in a bad light.
I also saw a connection between Truman and Capote, I feel they shared more than a mutual friendship. Especially because he would visit Perry on a regular occasion, but then again Truman could of have seen the good that Perry has inside of himself. In comparison with Dick I feel Truman had no real interest other than his partake in the entire murder.
I also was pretty shocked about who Capote was revealed to be, he was not how I imagined him. Capote at times in the film seemed pretty rude, like when he supposedly “paid” the train attendent to compliment him, or when he was trying to brag to his sophisitcated friends. As you stated, when his relationship with Perry developed, it became more apparent who Capote was. He was selfish, because he cared about his research above all else, but he was capable of compassion, which was clearly exhibited by his reaction to the death sentance.
Capote definitely was dedicated to writing the book and finding out information. I agree that Capote was interested in Perry which made him more intrigued with writing the novel.Capote was in denial with his emotions, he probably did nit want to believe he liked Perry so when he died it would not hurt him.
I also thought Capote was seen as a very dedicated person when it came to writing his novel. I agree that it could be a reason why the book was filled with so much detail. The movie definitely showed how close of a relationship Capote and Perry had. It seemed like Perry was more of an interesting person than Dick because Capote rarely spent time with Dick.
Originally, Capote was only there to get information from Perry for his new book “In Cold Blood”, but eventually I could clearly see that he didn’t just use Perry for his information, they eventually became friends. At first, I didn’t think Capote really cared, but as time went on, I could see that I was most definitely wrong.
I definitely agree with you in that Capote put the importance of his book over his friendship with Perry. He used and manipulated people to get what he wanted but at the same time did feel bad for Perry and Dick and didn’t want to see them put to death. Like you said, Capote went into a deep depression after hearing the news which confirms that he did have empathy for them.
When the film Capote began I was expecting to see the Clutter Family introduced, alive and breathing. However the film began by having the murder already committed. To be honest I was very excited to see the Clutter Family, after reading In Cold Blood I wanted to see if they met the description Capote gave us. When Truman decided to use the Clutter Family murder as his story I found it rather odd he would decide right away to write about their murder, or perhaps that is what writing is all about spontaneity. The way Capote is portrayed was something I was not expecting, I knew he was a homosexual but I did not know he was as flamboyant as the film portrays him to be. Perhaps this is why he and Perry had more than a relationship as a writer/interviewer.
I enjoyed how the film was composed it does focuses on the murder but I enjoyed the fact that the film is centered on how Capote approaches the Murder. I feel he is one of few people who took a keen eye on the murder by researching all aspects of the scene to the two murderers. This film made me realize this novel was just more than an ordinary novel to Capote, it was/is the most important work he has ever done. In the film he does state it is his life work. His overall purpose of the novel was so that people see the murders as humans; I believe he did this with Perry more than Dick. The film too seems to portray this as well, Perry is shown as the “nice” guy.
I was not expecting to see the Clutter family alive because this was not the actual film but knoq that you mention it, having seen the Cluttler family alive would have given us a bit more insight to them and how the town looked up to them. As for Capote jumping into the story it was was quite odd but some get sparks out of unsual things and in this case it was the Clutter murder.
I thought the Clutter family should have been introduced in the movie as well. The book seemed to describe each character in detail so I wanted to see how they would be depicted in the film. I did not think Capote would be portrayed as a flamboyant person either but It was kind of cool to see what the author was going through while writing his book.
I agree Capote was portrayed in a different lied than i realized, since he lived in the fifties i though he would very to himself about his sexuality. Capote was a character but i feel like his flamboyance was what helped him for his research for his novel. I also believe it helped him connect with Perry to receive such intimate information.
I wanted to see the Clutters alive as well. Of all stories to write about he chose the Clutter Family murder, he must have felt like there was more to the murder. I agree with how Capote was portrayed very flamboyant especially around Perry. Capote definitely took his job serious by researching just to write a book.
I too was surprised by how Capote was portrayed in the movie as well as Perry smith, whom like you said was seen as the “nice guy”. I agree with you in that Capote focuses on conveying Perry to be more human than Dick and develops a stronger relationship with him. I think that’s why the movie also focuses only on Perry and doesn’t really show much of Dick. Even at the end of novel, we are only shown the hanging of Perry and not Dick.
Quite an enthralling movie, I must say. Despite what I originally would have thought, Capote is depicted as a self-centered, conceited, but it seems he is covering up for the fact he is incredibly insecure. One would normally think that a movie about oneself would depict a negative aspect, but I suppose it shows that there is a truth-will-out aspect to the whole thing. Either that or Capote had no say in the matter. His irony was quite entertaining even as early as the 5 minute mark, when he claimed he was “not nearly as controversial” as his friend Jimmy Baldwin’s book, foreshadowing for those that knew the future aspects of his rumored obsession with the killer Perry.
When I saw Capote’s character in the opening scene, is how I had imagined him before hand, and I had imagined that that was his overall persona, yet was surprised to see how “out there” he seemed. He seemed apathetic at times, and detached, reminding me of an interview with Cormac McCarthy I once saw, who was to say the least not totally there during the interview. But none the less brilliant, as it was portrayed how Capote has a 94% recall rate of all information he is approached with. It was interesting to see the multiple sides of Capote throughout the movie, the entertainer, the recluse, and the egotist. The emotional attachment grew visible especially during the photo shoot scenes and the need to see Perry before his death. He was also quite fervent to get him a lawyer. And would not stop talking about them at his later parties, and how he attempts to return them to humanity.
Defiantly a dramatic turn from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
I concur with you on the part where you said that “The emotional attachment grew visible especially during the photo shoot scenes and the need to see Perry before his death.” Since I was actually really caught in the moment of how it was really visual to see Perry’s feelings. I kind of felt a lot of pity for him.
Based on the film, I would have to say that Capote was quite a gifted individual. Not only his ability to recall information, but also his understanding of human characteristics contributed to his writing successes. It was also very interesting to see that he surrounded himself with others who were of the writing community as well. Both his partner and Harper Lee, famous for having written To Kill a Mockingbird, supported Capote in his investigations relating to his book.
The point that you made about Capote being conceited to cover up his insecurities is very interesting and I didn’t really quiet think of it that way. I also thought it was nice to see the various sides of Capote. Just when I thought I had figured him out he revealed another side to him which completely changed my mind about him.
Andrea Cho
Section 19
Response to “In Cold Blood” the Movie
First off I would like to say that I love old classic black and white films which made me enjoy it a lot more. What I found that was interesting was how even though it was filmed a long time ago, they still were able to capture how the book was. On how one part would be about the Clutter family, and then in another scene how Dick and Perry plot as they reach Holocomb. Another thing that was very interesting was how Perry was shown as killing Mr. Clutter and the rest was never shown on who killed Nancy, Mrs. Clutter, and Kenyon. I thought that was a error to film. Also what I wanted to see was how the movie would capture the detailed way of how the four members of the Clutter family was killed. Then again, it was shot a long time ago.
Lastly, I enjoyed how the movie was capturing Perry. This one in particular scene where Perry was about to be put to execution by hanging, and he was next to the window. It was pouring rain, and you can see by the reflection that the rain was pouring down on his face. Symbolizing his mourning and yearn for life and to overall be free from execution. It was overall a pleasure to watch and see how the book was depicted through a movie.
The symbolism of the rain is now interesting. I did not really notice that, but once you bring it up makes sense. Also remember how we were talking in class about the affair, I actually believe it now, especially when Truman Capote says “I love Perry.” Also I found it very interesting that we do the see how the family was killed all you hear is the shots ant that is all.
I like how you mentioned the symbolism in the movie, especially that scene you mentioned how it was “pouring rain, and you can see by the reflection that the rain was pouring down on his face” which I always find to have an extremely melodramatic effect towards sadness. Definitely on a poetic level. Although the version I saw was in color, it definitely had that “old time” movie feel, complete with an array of enchanting characters.
There was a fair amount of implication that Truman Capote was of a homosexual orientation during discussion of his book, In Cold Blood. The acting made it quite clear that Capote was homosexual as it was reflected in his speech, appearance and actions. As an individual, the writer could very much have been described as an influential genius who was able to overcome various obstacles with his connections and financial support. It was this power that boosted the man’s ego to unreasonable heights.
Capote was quite dedicated to his work as he was very talented at writing. The original potential that he had found in the case of the Clutter family murder eventually would evolve to an overbearing experience. His personal interests in uncovering Perry’s story could have resulted in an entirely separate piece of writing as the two had spent a great deal of time sharing tales and talking in prisoner’s cell. The book was exceptionally well written and depicted the tale in a non fiction manner. However the movie helped to show Capote’s personal ties to the case and how it ultimately affected him.
I enjoyed the book, In Cold Blood a lot more than the movie. I was expecting the movie to be as in depth as the book but it turned out it wasn’t. The book seemed to focus more on the actual murder and was very descriptive when it came to the characters and the plot. The movie, “Capote” mainly focused on Truman Capote’s life while researching to write his novel.
The book is a lot more interesting because Capote goes into detail when describing all the characters. Compared to the movie, Capote gets very descriptive when describing the Clutter family, their deaths, and the murderers in his novel. I thought In Cold Blood is more appealing than “Capote” because it is more suspenseful and has a better storyline. The film, on the other hand, was not as fascinating to me because it was mainly about Truman Capote as a person and the things he did to get a story. Capote is depicted as an upper class man who was boastful, selfish, and ostentatious. The movie also focuses on Capote’s close relationship with Perry Smith. I thought the book was better because it drew more attention on the bigger picture while the movie was centered on Truman Capote’s character.
What you wrote was true, but you have to remember that the book was about the murder and the murderers, and the movie was about Capote’s journey of writing the book. The book was to inform the audience about the murder of the Clutter family; therefore, it should be detailed and descriptive. The movie, on the other hand, was more about Capote, himself, doing his research on the incident and developing a relationship with Perry.
This movie was quite interesting. His wasn’t intending to write a book at first. It just so happened that he wrote a non-fiction novel. Capote was very dedicated to murder. The film was interesting, the fact that it was about the research and the amount of time and effort he put into his book. I did not know that one of his friend’s was the author of To Kill a Mockingbird which is one of my most favorite books of all time. I did feel that this film included a lot of information that I was unaware about.
His relationship with Perry was a big deal in the book. I was able to sense the hopeless expression on his face when he heard that. Eventually, capote let Perry know that he just pretended to be his friend just to get a good story out of it, but you can obviously tell that deep down, as time went on, he wasn’t pretending anymore. I like that a friendship could be accidentally built. That’s one of my favorite things about life, is having the unexpected happen. He researched his information for a non-fiction novel. A novel is usually fictional, but he put the time and effort to learn and study this case, and during that time, he built a friendship and learned quite a bit to make his one and only book a best selling book.
I agree with Capote first intentions was just to get information on the novel and suddenly he began to receive feelings for Perry. You could tell Capote did not know how to deal with his feeling for Perry so he lied that he liked or was even friends with Perry, in order to get more information. This was interesting because you saw Capote and his struggle with his research about the murder.
I didn’t know either that Capote was friend with Harper Lee. While I was reading students response I found out that they were friends which makes the both authors pretty unique. In addition I really liked when you mentioned, “…is having the unexpected happen”, I do think its pointless if someone will know what it is going happen to them in the future.
I agree with you on the part where the friendship could have been accidentally built. Also, how you depicted his passion for the research and how he incorporated it into the book seems to be mutual.
I enjoyed watching the film Capote. It was interesting to see the different sides of the case and how Truman Capote came up with his idea for the novel “In Cold Blood.” The actor who starred in the role as Truman Capote did an excellent job capturing the mannerism and style that Capote had in real life. I have seen some live interviews with the real Truman Capote and the actor nailed him on the head. I always wondered why people thought he was a homosexual, but after seeing this film I understood more clearly.
I found it interesting that Capote investigated the murders with fellow writer Harper Lee. Harper Lee was not as famous as he and she was hardly the person I would imagine being in the thick of things, especially if the task at hand was to investigate murders. Also, the movie did an excellent job showing the relationship Capote made with all of the people involved. For example, his relationship with the Dewey’s and with Perry Smith. The work Capote put into novel was very well demonstrated and it is no wonder that this movie and his novel were successful.
Yes, I agree with you that the actor did an amazing job portraying Capote. I also watched Capote’s interview. The actor played Capote in very well. It was as if it was Capote himself acting. Furthermore, the movie was very intriguing.
Response on film “In Cold Blood”
IN COLD BLOOD, was the work of journalist-cum-author Truman Capote, who penned a chilling, if verbose, account of the tragedy. What might have been a “mmm, that’s terrible” of a Sunday morning’s paper was instead immortalized, ostensibly forever.
The first thing, surprisingly, that I got to thinking of as IN COLD BLOOD started was the sound of it. The film begins with a jazz number, all trombones chuffing and rhythmic thumps and pulses with the squeals of a bus and a train’s shriek.
We see a jumble of images and a loose thread of a plot starts to develop– one man, Perry (on the cover the one in the foreground, also the one most focused on in the movie) has gotten out of jail and, from his feverish uneasiness and too-rapid movements, is expecting to meet someone. One collect call later, hopes are dashed and plans are set anew.
While not all may enjoy the dark IN COLD BLOOD, and it is not necessarily a must see in my mind, it is nevertheless recommended viewing for those so inclined. As a novel adaption, and as a stand-alone film, the final product is a chilling true to life account that will stick in your mind, for better or for worse.
Capote a movie with much meaning to the story behind the way author Truman Capote held his research for his non-fictional novel In Cold Blood. It gives a more inside visual of the life of Truman Capote and the people he had in his life. When you take a close look at him you can see him as a person very sociable and very demanding when it comes to getting all of the information out of individuals, especially when he tries to talk to Nancy. Capote is very in you face when asking questions and is good at manipulating individuals for his own use, after he gets all he needs it is as if he throws them away. When it comes to the whole rumor that Capote was homosexual, it was proved in the movie and the way he took care of Perry made it seem that they were on closer terms. I also found it ironic that Truman Capote would make fun of homosexuals when he had his own partner.
The reactions that Perry had to the title of the book that Truman was writing that had not finished was not surprising because lying to someone about a book that you are writing about them is as if it was not what they were thinking. Truman Capote seems very close to Perry especially the way that he took the details of the family murder. The way that Capote acts after taking the story affects his emotional state and loses all control. Knowing that he could not finish a book after In Cold Blood lets me know that his mental state had declined and he has no way to take away that that scar from the murders in his life.
I really like how you described the author’s background here. Myself, I have focused on Dick and Perry actions but when I have read your response it helped to know more about Truman Capote.
Throughout the novel, many characters express different opinions on the practice of capital punishment. Surprisingly, even the killers have opposing opinions on their ultimate fate.
th
Capote was a very interesting and intriguing film. I think Philip Seymour Hoffman portrayed Truman Capote exquisitely from his flamboyant attitude to the unique way he spoke. It was nice that the movie was focused on Capote’s personal life and what transpired during his making of the novel since his book was written in a non-personal and journalistic view point. There some differences in the movie that left me wondering why they were made. For example, Bobby Rupp’s name was changed to Danny and Nancy’s name was changed to Laura. Also, I noticed that in the interview with Capote and Perry Smith, Perry mentioned that he had cut the rope that was holding Mr.Clutter up because he looked like he was in pain. However, in the book he says that Mr. Clutter was so strong that he broke free from the rope. So I guess I was just confused as to why these changes were made because I couldn’t see why they were necessary.
I liked the fact that we got to see how sociable and entertaining Capote was. At every party and event that he was at, he was the center of attention and was constantly making everybody around him laugh. Capote was such an interesting man with many different sides to him that were definitely conveyed throughout the movie. I found it a little cruel that Capote tells Perry that he was just using him for a story and manipulating him to get what he wanted. However, it is clear at the end of the movie that Capote felt empathetic towards Perry and was very emotional about his death, revealing that he did care deeply for him.
Yes, I agree with you. I think that Hoffman did an amazing job at portraying Capote. I watched the actual Capote before I watched the movie, Capote. After watching Capote, I thought that Hoffman was exactly Capote. It was very pleasing to find the actor just like the actual person. Yes, the movie did reveal a relationship between Perry and Capote.
First of all, I thought that the movie, Capote, was very interesting. One can see the translation between the novel and the movie. The Capote of what I thought of was very different from the Capote in the movie. I thought of a more masculine man instead of a feminine one. His voice also was surprising. Again, I thought that Capote was masculine. Throughout the reading of the novel, I keep hearing that Perry and Capote could have a relationship between the two. I would be like, “What? Throughout the story, there was not a tone of him favoring Perry at all.” However, after watching Capote, I can see the “favoring of Perry” in the story. The movie demonstrates the hesitations of Capote between his “love” for Perry or the law. He seemed to wanting to be with Perry. He tried to prove that Perry was under a mental illness called paranoid schizophrenia. At the end of the book, it becomes clear that Capote was trying to demonstrate that Perry seem to have that illness because throughout the story, he is trying to make the audience pity on Perry. The movie was interesting because it actually demonstrate the relationship between Perry and Capote. Capote seems to be attracted toward Perry because they seem to have many things in comment. They were abandoned by their parents and seem to live a lonely life. The movie just opens my eyes to many things that I did not take note in the book.